Cornwall Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Cornwall

A coastal viewpoint with a stone staircase leading to a viewing platform overlooking turquoise waters and a sandy beach.
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Penzance

Penzance

What you need to know for your Cornwall car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Cornwall

Renting a car in Cornwall is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions of this beautiful county at their own pace. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to visit key sites like the Eden Project, a remarkable botanical garden, or the picturesque St. Michael's Mount, a castle steeped in culture. The flexibility of having your own vehicle allows for easy luggage management and the ability to create a travel itinerary that suits your needs, whether you are traveling with family, seeking romance, or embarking on an outdoor adventure.

Additionally, popular destinations like Penzance, Newquay, and St Ives are easily accessible by car. You can enjoy the sandy shores of Fistral Beach in Newquay or visit the scenic Porthcurno Beach near Penzance. With so many attractions spread across Cornwall, a rental car is conveniently suited for sightseeing, ensuring you don’t miss out on the breathtaking scenery and vibrant local culture that this region has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Cornwall

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travelers and provides ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Cornwall. With its higher seating position and enhanced storage capacity, you'll find it ideal for comfortable journeys across the region while effortlessly managing your luggage.
  • Economy: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the Economy car can seat 5 travelers and hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is not only budget-friendly but also offers flexibility and efficiency for navigating Cornwall's attractions. Its compact size makes it easier to park in tighter spots, allowing you to maximize your exploration time.
  • Compact: The Compact car is a versatile choice that accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or families. Its smaller footprint makes it easy to maneuver around Cornwall's charming streets, while still offering enough space for your luggage. Rent a Compact car for a balance of comfort and convenience on your trip.

Where to stay in Cornwall

  • Newquay: For a vibrant beach experience, consider staying in Newquay, renowned for its stunning beaches like Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay Beach. The area boasts a lively outdoor scene, perfect for those who enjoy recreational activities and golf. Families will appreciate the family-friendly beaches and scenic views. Additionally, nearby options for food and drinks include local wineries. Enjoy the coastal charm of Newquay, especially during the summer months when the weather is optimal for beach activities.
  • Penzance: Penzance offers a rich cultural experience alongside beautiful beaches, making it an excellent choice for tourists. Key attractions include Porthcurno Beach and the iconic Land's End, providing breathtaking scenery. The area is also home to theaters and recreational venues that enhance its cultural appeal. With nearby wineries for those interested in local beverages, Penzance invites visitors to immerse themselves in both the arts and the natural beauty of Cornwall, particularly in spring and summer.
  • St Ives: St Ives is a picturesque destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Key highlights include St Ives Harbour, which serves as a hub for adventure and water activities, as well as Carbis Bay Beach and Porthminster Beach, both perfect for relaxation. The city's vibrant arts scene complements its stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy local breweries and wineries, making it a delightful spot to unwind. The best time to visit St Ives is during the warmer months when the beaches are best enjoyed.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Cornwall

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept credit cards exclusively for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help protect you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Cornwall

The best value period to rent a car in Cornwall is February, as both prices and demand are low. This month offers a quiet experience for travelers. January and March also present similar characteristics, making them excellent options for budget-conscious renters. April through June sees average prices and growing demand, while July and August are the most expensive months, with high demand for rentals during the busy summer season.

Find Cornwall Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Cornwall car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Cornwall, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Cornwall offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Cornwall car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Cornwall to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Cornwall airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Cornwall rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Cornwall airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Cornwall?
You can find cheap car rentals in Cornwall from $11 a day with Drivalia UK's economy 4-5 door cars. Car rentals for exploring Cornwall are picked up at the region's main gateway, Bristol Airport (BRS). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Newquay and St Ives. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, Budget, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avis operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Cornwall.
What are the best car rentals in Cornwall?
Car rentals across Cornwall offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget, broadly available in the region's main cities — Newquay, St Ives, and Penzance. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Economy SUV
  • Compact elite SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Cornwall.

What are the best car rental companies in Cornwall?
For car rentals across Cornwall, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, Budget, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avis offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Newquay, St Ives, and Penzance. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Bristol Airport (BRS) for exploring Cornwall?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Bristol Airport (BRS) for exploring Cornwall. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget operate at the airport, with rates from around $16 a day. Bristol Airport (BRS) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Newquay to St Ives.
Can I rent a car one-way in Cornwall?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Cornwall — pick up in one city, such as Newquay, and drop-off in another, like St Ives, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $14 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Cornwall?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Cornwall, including in Newquay and St Ives. Sixt and Enterprise both offer electric vehicles from $17 a day. EVs help keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Cornwall?
For luxury car rentals across Cornwall, Enterprise offers premium SUV cars from $52 a day (and fullsize SUV from $60), while Alamo Rent A Car and Avis add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Newquay and St Ives. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Cornwall.
What are the best car rentals in Cornwall for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Cornwall, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Newquay to St Ives:
  • Budget: midsize SUV from $21 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: midsize SUV from $34 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $45 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Cornwall.

What are the best car rentals in Cornwall for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Cornwall for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Newquay and St Ives:
  • Economy car, from $21 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Cornwall.

What are the best car rentals in Cornwall for couples?
The best car rentals in Cornwall for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Newquay and St Ives:
  • Midsize SUV, from $20 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $24 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Cornwall.

What are the closest airports to Cornwall for car rental pick-up?
Several airports offer car rental pick-up for exploring Cornwall, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Bristol Airport (BRS)
  • Newquay Cornwall Airport (NQY)
  • Exeter Airport (EXT)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Cornwall?
In Cornwall, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Cornwall?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Cornwall. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Cornwall?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Cornwall?
Budget car rental in Cornwall can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Cornwall?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Cornwall. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Cornwall car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Cornwall?
To rent a car in Cornwall, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Cornwall car rental?
If you need to cancel your Cornwall car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
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